Ultimate Stuffed Shells Recipe: Cheesy Comfort Food Delight

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? If you’re anything like me, it’s stuffed shells. Picture this: plump pasta shells, lovingly filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, bathed in a rich marinara sauce, and topped with ooey-gooey melted mozzarella. The aroma wafting from the oven is simply irresistible, promising a delightful feast that warms both body and soul. Who doesn’t want to dive into a plate of this cheesy goodness after a long day?

I remember the first time I made stuffed shells for my family—there was cheese everywhere! My dog was convinced it was his lucky day as he caught falling bits from my culinary chaos. Everyone gathered around the table, and the laughter echoed as we savored each bite. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in, stuffed shells make every moment special. Trust me; your taste buds are going to thank you!

I once made these stuffed shells for my best friend’s birthday party, and they were the star of the show—everyone wanted seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: Opt for high-quality pasta; it holds up better when baked and stuffed.

• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; choose whole milk for the best texture.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded melts beautifully and gives that gooey texture everyone loves.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan enhances flavor; don’t skip this step for extra depth.

• Marinara Sauce: Use homemade or your favorite jarred sauce; it’s all about convenience!

• Fresh Basil: Adds a pop of freshness; chop it finely to distribute its flavor evenly.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Pasta Shells: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente—about 9 minutes should do it.

Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, grated parmesan, fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended—don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!

Stuff the Shells: Carefully drain the pasta shells once cooked and let them cool slightly. Fill each shell generously with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.

Add Sauce & Cheese: Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells on top, then pour remaining sauce over them. Finish off by sprinkling remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoy these stuffed shells hot from the oven with some crusty bread and a side salad!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To ensure perfectly cooked stuffed shells, first cook the pasta al dente, then prepare the filling while the shells cool. Bake them in marinara sauce for a bubbly finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize stuffed shells by swapping ricotta for cottage cheese or adding spinach to the filling. You can also top them with different cheeses for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay delicious.

Cooking stuffed shells takes me back to family dinners where laughter echoed off the walls and my grandma’s secret sauce was always a hit!

FAQ

Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them in advance and refrigerate before baking.

What fillings work best for stuffed shells?

Popular fillings include ricotta, mozzarella, spinach, and even ground meat for added protein.

How do I prevent stuffed shells from sticking together?

Lightly coat cooked shells with olive oil before stuffing to keep them from sticking.

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Stuffed Shells

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these delicious stuffed shells! Picture plump jumbo pasta filled with a creamy ricotta cheese blend, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with gooey melted mozzarella. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, promising to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Easy to customize, these stuffed shells are sure to become a favorite in your home.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6 people (12 stuffed shells) 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or jarred)
• 0.25 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook jumbo pasta shells until al dente (about 9 minutes). Drain and cool slightly.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 0.75 cups mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, salt, and pepper until blended.
3. Fill each shell generously with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
4. Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, arrange stuffed shells on top, then pour remaining sauce over them. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (180g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 50mg